2012 U.S. Open Player Previews: Juan Martin del Potro

We’ve sometimes felt obliged to include del Potro in our lists of major title contenders—despite numerous injury-related setbacks, he’s the only player besides Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win a Slam since 2006. But lately, the Argentine has re-established himself as a bona fide threat to the tour’s elite, and seems poised for a second breakthrough performance. Why not at the place where he first stole the stage, Flushing Meadows? The 2009 champ, now No. 8 in the rankings, has reached the semis in eight of the 14 tournaments he’s played in 2012, most recently Cincinnati, by far the most demanding tune-up this summer. But most notable was his final-four finish at the Olympics, where he took bronze after losing an epic to Federer, 19-17 in the third set. A loss, yes, but one that signaled del Potro’s true return to significance.

Why He’ll Win:

With Rafael Nadal out of the picture, the non-“Big 3” have a big opportunity. Del Potro’s massive hitting is most rewarded in Queens, and he’s been on the cusp of a giant result for some time.

Why He Won’t:

Del Potro’s high-risk game has perhaps lost him as many titles as he’s won. The big man has come up woefully short in some important matches throughout his career.

Bottom Line:

As good as he is from the baseline, del Potro can do himself a favor by serving with similar authority. Stamina is paramount: He needs to be able to win his early-round matches with relative ease.

More U.S. Open Player Previews:

**Roger Federer

Novak Djokovic

Andy Murray

David Ferrer

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Juan Martin del Potro**

**Victoria Azarenka

Agnieszka Radwanska

Maria Sharapova

Serena Williams

Petra Kvitova

Samantha Stosur**